Programme Specialist SRHR

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is a leading UN agency that focuses on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to advancing the rights of individuals and ensuring access to reproductive health services, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA's strategic plan for 2026-2029 aims to address complex global challenges and enhance resilience and renewal in the face of demographic changes and human rights issues. The organization emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are dedicated to achieving high-impact results through effective partnerships and resource mobilization.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Malawi plays a crucial role in leading and supervising the SRHR team within the UNFPA Country Office. This position is responsible for providing strategic direction and management of UNFPA's efforts in sexual and reproductive health, ensuring alignment with national policies and frameworks. The specialist will develop, coordinate, implement, and monitor national SRHR strategies and programs, focusing on maternal health, family planning, and HIV prevention. The role requires a deep understanding of the SRHR landscape in Malawi, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and civil society, to advocate for and mobilize resources for SRHR initiatives. The specialist will also be involved in high-level engagement and contribute to the overall strategic planning of the 9th Country Programme (CP) in Malawi, which prioritizes the health and well-being of adolescent girls and aims to reduce gender-based violence and harmful practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Specialist SRHR will oversee the SRHR program of UNFPA in Malawi, providing strategic direction and leadership to program analysts, officers, and consultants. Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Planning, Programme Management, and Coordination: Lead the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of SRHR interventions in collaboration with the Government of Malawi and other partners. Ensure coherence with national and international planning frameworks.
• Financial Planning and Reporting: Coordinate SRHR-related budgeting and reporting exercises, ensuring alignment with donor commitments and UNFPA policies. Monitor project expenditures and facilitate timely financial reporting.
• Policy Engagement and Technical Leadership: Analyze the political, social, and economic environment relevant to SRHR and provide substantive inputs for integrating SRHR into national development frameworks.
• Representation and Partnership: Represent UNFPA in national and UN forums, building partnerships with government institutions, civil society, and development partners to advocate for SRHR.
• Team Leadership: Oversee the work of the SRHR Unit and ensure effective collaboration among team members and stakeholders.
• Additional Duties: Carry out any other responsibilities as assigned by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed Master’s Degree in political sciences, social policy, public health, social mobilization, business administration, international relations, or related fields. A minimum of five years of experience in SRHR, particularly in maternal health, contraception, and HIV programming, is required. Demonstrated experience in advocacy, policy development, and collaboration with government and civil society is essential. Candidates should have strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and managerial skills, along with a proactive approach to problem-solving and resource mobilization. Field experience is considered an asset, and candidates should be self-starters with a passion for SRHR issues.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a Master’s Degree in relevant fields such as political sciences, social policy, public health, social mobilization, business administration, or international relations. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as for engaging effectively with various stakeholders in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in sexual and reproductive health and rights, with a focus on maternal health, contraception, and HIV programming. Candidates should have a proven track record in advocacy, policy development, and program management, particularly in complex environments. Experience in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing large-scale projects is essential, as is the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and build strategic partnerships.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates.